Taiwan has encountered its most intense plum rain season in over ten years, with rainfall levels across the nation reaching their highest since 2012. This year’s June saw Taipei shatter its previous records for precipitation. The Central Weather Administration reported that the rainy stretch from May through June brought an average of 609.9 millimeters of rain to the island, far surpassing the historical norm of 440.7 millimeters. The deluge was influenced by stationary weather fronts, robust southwesterly winds, and the presence of a tropical storm.
Southern Taiwan bore the brunt of this moisture, with some regions experiencing rainfall between 400 and 800 millimeters during just the first half of June. In Pingtung County, certain areas recorded nearly 1,000 millimeters of rain over a mere three days. Meanwhile, Taipei set a new precedent in June precipitation, receiving a staggering 870.5 millimeters throughout the month, the most since records started being kept in 1897.
As the year progresses, weather authorities anticipate temperatures to remain within or above typical ranges through September, while rainfall is expected to align with seasonal averages. Predictions also suggest that three to five tropical storms or typhoons might pass in proximity to Taiwan during the latter part of the year. Forecasters have highlighted the emerging El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean as a potential factor that could intensify tropical storms, by giving them more opportunity to strengthen over warm ocean waters before nearing the region.
Taiwan’s official typhoon season kicks off on July 1, prompting authorities to implement new coastal wave warning systems aimed at enhancing public safety during adverse weather conditions. These measures are part of an ongoing effort to better protect the population as severe weather phenomena become more prevalent.